West Bromwich Albion are bordering on desperation in their hunt for a new striker to lead Slaven Bilic’s line but perhaps there’s an easy solution…
What’s the word?
According to the Express & Star, the Baggies boss is keen to bolster his attack with another goalscorer but is having trouble securing number one target Karlan Grant.
Among the list of other alternatives is Watford veteran Troy Deeney, who the Midlands outfit are thought to have enquired about.
Previous reports from the same source suggest that it would be a temporary switch for the £5.85m-rated powerhouse rather than a permanent one.
Grant alternative?
Whilst Grant would be a phenomenal addition at the Hawthorns, he would still arrive with several risks, most notably his lack of experience in the top-flight.
And that’s avoiding his £18m price tag.
The report even states that Charlie Austin and Kenneth Zohore could yet leave before Monday’s deadline, so might Bilic need more than one addition?
He ought to look no further than Deeney as he’s racked up 163 appearances in the Premier League, many of which as captain of the Hornets.
Despite being relegated last season, the 32-year-old still hit ten goals for the season. He also averaged a whopping 7.3 aerials won, 1.7 shots and 1.1 key passes per game, via WhoScored.
This practically gives Albion a new dimension as Deeney clearly likes to put himself about and make a nuisance amongst the opposition’s backline.
His old boss Malky Mackay once described the 6 foot 4 monster as a “real handful” whilst teammate Christian Kabasele has hailed him as a “great leader”.
The only downside would be coming to an agreement over his £65k-per-week wages but given it would only be a loan deal, it could be a move that Luke Dowling could afford.
AND in other news, West Brom ought to steer clear of £10m flop amid shock interest…